The Transition to Independence Process (TIP) Model™ is an evidence-supported practice based on published studies that demonstrate improvements in real-life outcomes for youth and young adults with emotional/behavioral difficulties (EBD).

The TIP Model™

Young adults experience dramatic changes across all areas of development during their transition to adulthood. This transition proves especially challenging for more than 3 million youths and young adults with emotional and/or behavioral difficulties (EBD). Because of this, the TIP system was developed to prepare those with EBD for their movement into adult roles. Through this individualized process, young adults ages 14-29 are engaged in their own future planning methods as well as provided developmentally-appropriate services and support. They are encouraged to explore their interests and futures as related to each of the transition domains: employment and career, education, living situation, personal effectiveness/wellbeing, and community-life functioning.

The TIP Model™ has been applied to countless young people, including 17-year-old Kendra, who had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and was refusing to take her medication. Kendra’s transition facilitator, Ronda, would meet her in informal settings, such as cafes and neighborhood parks, to conduct Strength Discovery assessments and person-centered planning. Over time, Ronda became familiar with Kendra’s personal challenges, including her strained relationship with her mother, so they could determine unique solutions right for her. The TIP Model™ tailored support for Kendra to not only address her needs, but to help achieve her goals, and create a new path for her future. Read more.

The TIP Mission

The mission of the Transition to Independence Process (TIP) Model™ system is to assist young people with emotional and/or behavioral difficulties (EBD) in making a successful transition to adulthood with all young persons achieving, within their potential, their goals in the transition domains of education, employment, living situation, and community life.